This is a great fitness/recreational cross bike. It's been very reliable and it still looks almost new although it gets plenty of use. It's great on hills and absorbs road shock extremely well. It does well on pavement, packed dirt and mild off-road riding. I've been able to take great 30 mile country rides at an average of 15mph. It's also excellent for a quick 10 mile fitness ride during the week. Overall a terrific bike for the money. My wife has one and we just purchased a 2003 C30 for my teenage daughter.